Chinese President Xi Jinping has called for inclusiveness, coexistence and mutual learning to advance human civilisation.

Mr Xi made the call on Friday at the inaugural banquet ceremony of the ninth Asian Winter Games Harbin.

Mr Xi said, “The cauldron of the ninth Asian Winter Games will be lit tonight. From the Olympic Winter Games Beijing to the Asian Winter Games Harbin, the passion in China for ice and snow has swept across the nation. 

“It has also invigorated winter sports globally. The current Asian Winter Games sets a new record in its history in the numbers of participating countries, regions and athletes.”

The Chinese president added, “I believe with the joint efforts of the Olympic Council of Asia and delegations from all participating countries and regions, Harbin will present to the world a great sports event that is distinctly Chinese.

“Also, uniquely Asian and spectacular, thus writing new magnificent chapter of ice and snow sports; we should uphold our shared dream for tranquillity and harmony. Peace is as pure as ice and snow.

“No matter how the international landscape evolves, we should join hands together to meet all kinds of security challenges and contribute Asian strength to building an equal and orderly multipolar world.”

He emphasised the need for perseverance to achieve human civilisation, saying there is also the need for close working relations to drive economic growth globally.

“I wish all athletes excellent performance with the agility of the snake. May you all have beautiful and unforgettable memories of ice and snow in Harbin,” Mr Xi added. 

The ninth Asian Winter Games Harbin attracted not less than 1275 athletes from 34 countries, participating in 64 events across 11 sports.

The event, billed from February 3 to  14, is reportedly considered the largest edition in terms of participating contingents.

(NAN)